Unusual I concede but I'm with you B73.
All depends on what you consider a 'high time' instructor? With 000's of instructional hours you may well be a very good instructor, that doesn't mean it will be a straight forward transition to any other role though.
I've FI'd in a previous role, and my current role is significantly more demanding IMHO.
Market forces as already mentioned will continue, at present, to restrict both the pay/conditions and future progression of FI's. It's not right but thats how it is, and sadly many FI's regardless of ability or desire will never get that elusive dream job.
The introductory end of this industry has been poorly managed and abused for quite a while and until the general attitude changes I don't see things getting much better
